I could probably write a novel on all the things you shouldn't do as an incoming freshman. But how was I supposed to know that wearing a lanyard around your neck at the club, or trying to use a fake I.D. anywhere that's not Cellar, were bad ideas? The point is, we all make mistakes. Some a lot bigger than others. Hopefully, there's a few college freshmen reading this that will take note of my mistakes and learn from them.
1. Missing your parents is okay.
I can't even tell you how many times I wanted to "transfer." I called my mom crying on the phone so many times wanting to come home because I wasn't used to being on my own. I thought every little thing was the end of the world, and I was surprised that college wasn't exactly how it looked on TV. Cry it out, eat some ice cream. You'll be fine.
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2. DO NOT HOOK UP WITH PEOPLE WHO LIVE ON YOUR FLOOR.
This one is really important. Everyone I know told me this, but I still didn't listen. Guess who got stuck living across the hall from their move-in weekend make-out for the rest of the semester? Don't do it.
3. Don't lose your room key.
Put it on a keychain, or a hair-tie and wear in on your wrist. I lost my key twice, and both times I had to pay a $50 lock change fee. You really don't want to spend the little money you have on a doorknob.
4. If you get caught drinking in the dorms, be cooperative.
It's inevitable. You're probably going to break the rules and drink in the dorms. If and when you get caught, be nice to the RA's. It's their job to follow the rules, so don't swear at them, and don't try to be tough and throw punches at them. Give them your ID, and be respectful. They'll be much more lenient on punishment.
5. You probably won't meet your best friends on move-in day.
I don't even hang out with the people I met on move-in day anymore. If you don't make friends right away, that's okay. I didn't find my best friends until second semester, and they were worth the wait.
6. You will get annoyed with your roommate. No matter how much you love them.
If something they are doing upsets you, you have to tell them. I lost my roommate, who was one of my best friends, because instead of talking to her directly about something I had an issue with, I avoided it until it blew up in both of our faces.
7. The dining hall is a necessity.
Just like I did, you will probably complain about the food every day of your life. But once you move out of the dorms and into a house without a meal plan, you won't have any food. So appreciate it while you still have it.
8. GO TO CLASS.
Even if you took one too many shots at Bent Willey's on Wednesday night, don't skip class. You'll thank yourself later when your grade is an 89% and the professor gives out extra credit for attendance. Take a nap afterwards.
9. Don't leave your laundry in the washer or dryer past the timer.
Never leave your clothes in a washer or dryer after the cycle is over. Be there to take them out a minute before the cycle ends. I'm not trying to be rude, but people WILL pull your clothes out and throw them on the floor.
10. Don't feel obligated to go out drinking every night just because you're in college.
It was raining really hard one night, so a lot of kids from my floor stayed in and hung out in the lounge. We stayed up all night and played Never Have I Ever and Cards Against Humanity, and then got breakfast in the dining hall at 7am. Get to know people while they're sober, too. It's fun. Plus, don't forget that Netflix is going to be your best friend for the next four years. If you don't have an account, I suggest investing in one.
11. Enjoy the year.
It really does go by fast. Take advantage of the experience, and take advantage of being in the dorms. It might seem like a prison while you're there, but once you move out and your friends aren't two doors down anymore, you'll appreciate it. I met some of the best people and had the time of my life with them (cue Hedley). My freshman year of college is a huge part of who I am today. Embrace it, live it, love it.
